Frequently Asked Questions
1: In option 1 are my Lifeguard and Surf Qualifications world recognised?
2: Do I have to be able to surf or be super-fit?
3: I’m not into outdoor sports but I love Ireland. Is there a program for me ?
4: My parents are worried about me travelling alone ?
5: Is Donegal, Ireland pretty isolated ie the middle of nowhere?
6: Is there a minimum number for these courses?
7: What if I sign up, and you don’t get minimum numbers?
8: What’s included in the fees?
9:You say it’s ‘structured and supervised…’-what do you mean?
10: What do you mean when you say Ireland is a good place for European travel?
11: Surf in Ireland? You are kidding me! And isn’t it cold?
12: I’m a bit older- a college graduate. Can I do this trip?
13:I’m really interested in travelling abroad, but I’d like to do it as part of my education.
1: Are my Lifeguard and Surf Qualifications world recognised?
Yes, the RLSS and ISA qualifications are recognised world-wide, as are your First Aid and Child Protection qualifications. You can work as a surf coach, outdoor sports instructor or lifeguard anywhere in the world.
2: Do I have to be able to surf or be super-fit?
No: you need to be able to swim, and we will do the rest. Surfing, lifeguarding and all the other activities require practice and training, we will do plenty of this with you, but ultimately, the assessments depend on your energy and enthusiasm. We also do paddling (canoe & kayak) rope climbing & rappelling, skateboarding, archery & other outdoor pursuits.
3: I’m not into outdoor sports but I love Ireland. Should I do this programme?
4: My parents are worried about me travelling alone
We have been working with US students since 1995. We have excellent references and a superb, structured, happy, safe environment that allows our visitors to be adventurous and experiential, but never far away from assistance and guidance.
Living conditions are warm, modern and comfortable, staff is welcoming and friendly. Medical, financial and social services are all available locally, and program staff are always on hand to help, advise and liaise between home and travel.
5: Is Donegal, Ireland pretty isolated?
Ireland is one of the most successful economies in the European Union. Its culture is unique. Everywhere 
you look, there is stunning scenery and unspoilt beaches, an ancient Celtic history, friendly people, and a great sense of fun, music and what we call ‘craic’. But the strong economy has also lead to enormous growth and prosperity- you are never far away from a cappuccino, an internet café, excellent libraries, lively pubs and clubs, a legendary music scene, arts and culture festivals and more. The country sits on the outer edge of Europe, with the Gulf Stream keeping the coastal waters warm and the climate temperate: The Atlantic Ocean rolls in bringing the famous waves; The climate varies between misty rains and spring sunshine: Never extreme, never cold or hot, snake free, hurricane free, earthquake free, mosquito free….no shots required, visas required…just a sense of humour and adventure!
6
Is there a minimum number for these courses?
Yes.The Experience Ireland semester (option 3) needs a minimum of ten people to run.
The Spring 08 semester of our Adventure Ireland course will require at least 5 people to take part.
7
What if I sign up, and you don’t get minimum numbers?
This would be unusual. But we can accommodate people on course 1 if course two doesn’t fill up. We will of course refund your deposit if the course does not run. If you decide to come to Ireland anyway, we will be happy to provide accommodation and most of the elements of the course for a reduced fee.
8 What’s included in the fees?
We collect you from Dublin Airport. Your accommodation for the duration, heat and light is included. All of your training, tuition, any required equipment and travel Monday-Thursday is included. Food and drink is not included. Travel at weekends is at your own expense. Cultural trips and excursions that are part of the course are included. We return you to Dublin Airport at the end of your experience.
9
You say it’s ‘structured and supervised…-what do you mean?’
We keep in touch with parents, and we expect all participants to treat this experience as they would a semester in college. A similar level of genial supervision is offered. Our staff will work very hard to make sure that your experience of Ireland is safe, fulfilling, enjoyable and rewarding.
10 What do you mean when you say Ireland is a good place for European travel?
The Irish airlines RYANAIR and AER LINGUS offer low-cost flights to very many places in Europe, including London, Paris, Venice, Prague, Milan, Amsterdam and many more. Short breaks abroad are a cheap and realistic option if you would also like to hop around some other countries.
1
1:
Surf in Ireland? You are kidding me! And isn’t it cold?
No, not kidding, the west coast of Ireland is the very first landing point for those Atlantic swells, Ireland has terrific surf conditions, many many surf beaches and lots of uncrowded waves. The Gulf stream currents keep the water between 12-15 degrees all year round: Yes, you need to wear a wetsuit (provided), but it’s a small price to pay for the cleanest, greenest water you will ever surf.
12:
I’m a bit older- a college graduate. Can I do this trip?
13:I’m really interested in travelling abroad, but I’d like to do it as part of my education.
We would also like to help colleges and schools with study abroad, especially in the area of sports, Kinesiology, outdoors leadership and cultural studies. Many colleges are happy to accredit students who spend 
time with us: we are happy to
forward our full curriculum to your Dean of International Education.
